Marital status and social welfare entitlements

For the purposes of most social welfare payments in Ireland (for example, Jobseeker's Allowance and Supplementary Welfare Allowance), couples who are cohabiting (living together) are treated in the same way as married couples or civil partners.

However, your marital status does affect your entitlement to Widow's/Widower's or Surviving Civil Partner's (Contributory) Pension or Widow's/Widower's or Surviving Civil Partner's (Non-Contributory) Pension. You can only claim Widow's/Widower's or Surviving Civil Partner's Pension if your spouse or civil partner dies. The pension remains payable while you remain widowed or a surviving civil partner. If you re-marry or start to cohabit, it is no longer payable.

Further information about how your marital status can affect your entitlements is available from your local social welfare office. Staff can explain your entitlements and help to fill in forms. In the case of Supplementary Welfare Allowance, contact the Community Welfare Officer in your local Intreo centre or social welfare branch office.